Mumbai: Auto major Mahindra and Mahindra launched its high-end sports utility vehicle Rexton in India on Wednesday in partnership with SsangYong motors.

Ssangyong Rexton will be available only in diesel option

"A manual model of the sports utility vehicle (SUV) is priced at Rs 17.67 lakh ex-Mumbai and the automatic version at Rs 19.67 lakh," M&M president, automotive and farm equipment, Pawan Goenka said at the launch.

The new Rexton has two variants RX5 MT and RX7 AT AWD.

This is the first vehicle launch after Mahindra took over the Korean company in March last year.

After having its national launch in Mumbai, Rexton launch will be followed in New Delhi and Bangalore & phase wise roll out in other markets.

The first launch from its Korean arm is produced at the Chakan plant with some localisation, the company said.

In November 2010, Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) had signed a definitive agreement with Ssangyong Motor Company to acquire 70 percent stake in the ailing South Korean automaker at a total cost of USD 463 million (about Rs 2,105 crore).

The third generation Rexton or the Rexton W that boasts of sophisticated styling, luxurious interiors and superior handling will be pitted against Toyota Fortuner, Mitsubishi Pajero Sport and Ford Endeavour.

The car is the first high-end SUV from the Mumbai-based auto firm.

The company said it has invested over Rs 63 crore at its Chakan plant for this model.